Friend, did you realize that the Bible presents a significant difference between "preaching" the Gospel of Christ, and "fully preaching" the Gospel of Christ? It's true. The major differentiating factor is the power of the Holy Ghost! Observe:
"Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ" (Rom 15:19).
This phrase "fully preached" means, "to make full, to fill up, to cause to abound, to supply liberally, to render complete, to fill to the top so that nothing shall be wanting, to fill to full measure, to fill to the brim". Can we notice the necessity that these words convey?
As we read the New Testament, we find a very simple, plain and forceful truth — the Holy Spirit makes a huge difference! Of course this is elementary, but I don't think we can be reminded enough.
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses" (Acts 1:8)
Consider these early disciples: Jesus Himself taught them for more than three years.. Surely He conducted the greatest "Bible school" the earth had ever seen! But still He had to caution them and encourage them not to depend on their own wisdom and strength: “Tarry ye . . . until ye be endued with power from on high” (Lk 24:49). Even with such training, they were utterly dependent on the Holy Spirit! Even with all their "sufficient" learning, they were helpless on their own; they could not "fully preach" the Gospel if left to themselves! The power of the Holy Spirit is the means by which our wildernesses are made "a fruitful field" (Isa 32:15). Sadly, so many believers limit Him to a past dispensation.. They don't seem to realize that the Holy Ghost is Jesus' replacement, once He visibly left this earthly scene (Jn 14:16). Why wouldn't we take heed to Him and receive as much as we possibly could?
What a lesson for those who are likewise believing to be mightily used of God. The power of God is how we may "fully preach" the Gospel of Christ!
No comments:
Post a Comment